Air quality alert issued for Long Island

Sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-to-upper 80s come with a price Wednesday: The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert, warning pollution levels are elevated -- warning those with medical issues to stay inside. "The New York State Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health...

Get unlimited digital access $14.99 A MONTH

Sunny skies and temperatures in the mid-to-upper 80s come with a price Wednesday: The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert, warning pollution levels are elevated -- warning those with medical issues to stay inside.

"The New York State Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects," the weather service said in its alert, issued at 9:46 a.m. Wednesday and in effect until 11 p.m.

The alert area includes Nassau and Suffolk and the five boroughs of New York City.

Officials warn that the very young, seniors and those with pre-existing respiratory problems related to asthma or heart disease are at greatest risk.

The good news for those not at risk is that the forecast for much of the week remains good, despite the possibility of thunderstorms Thursday. That chance is about 30 percent, forecasters said.

In addition to sunny skies Wednesday and the chance of thunderstorms Thursday, however, the weather service is calling for mostly sunny skies Friday, mostly clear skies Saturday and sunny skies on Sunday. Highs all three days should be in the low 80s.